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John Perry here with the latest guest post in this weeks installment of “Bodybuilding Corner”. Maybe you’ll agree with some of my opinions to follow, maybe not….Use the facebook comments feature to discuss!

In this post I am going to list who, in my opinion, are the top five bodybuilding physiques in the pre-modern era (before Dorian Yates) and the top five bodybuilding physiques post- modern era. Each physique I mention refers to a specific version of that particular bodybuilder. That is, their certain physique in a certain year. Also, each person can only be used once.

There are many people who think that the physiques of the seventies and eighties were the best of all time and that the look of pro bodybuilders today is “too much”. Meaning the modern era guys are too big, therefore, making their physiques not desirable to most. I, personally, disagree; in a bodybuilding competition there are certain criteria that the athletes are judged on. The judging criterion has not changed. There are seven compulsory poses and four quarter-turns. I don’t know if they did the quarter-turns in the sixties or seventies, but it makes no difference because it still comes down to size, proportion, symmetry and condition. If you took the top guys from 1975 and put them on stage against the top guys of today they would not be able to compete with the bigger guys just because of the size difference. Evolution occurs in all sports. As time goes by new information and technology comes about and the athletes in the top level of any sport get better and better. Most people would say they would rather look like Arnold than Ronnie Coleman. That may be true, but I am just saying Arnold wouldn’t beat Ronnie Coleman on stage.

I came up with the following list after many hours of research checking out all of upper level pros from 1965 to now. This is just my opinion and all opinions on a subject such as this are subjective by nature.

Top 5 Bodybuilding Physiques – Pre-Modern Era:

5. Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mr. Olympia 1974

Arnold is the cliché of a lot people’s favourite bodybuilder. If bodybuilding was judged on upper body and personality then, yes, I would agree. But truthfully, Arnold always had weak legs. They weren’t terrible, but far from where they needed to be to match his upper body. Legs are half of your body. To say that a bodybuilder with half of their body somewhat underdeveloped is the greatest of all time is ridiculous. The thing is, however, most of the top guys back then had weak legs. Legs were not as prioritized by bodybuilders during that time as they should have been. So Arnold was able to get in really good condition with a great upper body and look better than everyone else. I am a fan of Arnold; bodybuilding would be even less known about by the general public without him, but to say that he is the greatest of all time is not right in my opinion. Arnold, 1974 version, did look rather foolish though, but with who he stood next to I do agree with him winning his 6 Olympia titles, for sure. The comeback win in 1980 is a debatable one.

4. Mike Mentzer, Mr. Olympia 1980

 Mike Mentzer is known by many bodybuilding enthusiasts these days for creating his Heavy Duty, or   High Intensity training system. He created this system of training with the goal of training a drug-     free athlete to reach their maximum muscular-growth potential in the shortest amount of time. Mike was as much of a bodybuilding philosopher as he was anything else. His training system entails very low volume, training infrequently but each workout is completed with the goal of creating a new personal best, thereby placing a greater stress on the muscle than before and stimulating growth. He insisted that most bodybuilders are grossly overtraining and are not progressing optimally because of this. Mike also insisted that the typical high protein bodybuilder diet was not the best diet for building muscle. He suggested following a more balanced diet regime with somewhat convincing reasoning to back up his claims. If you read my first couple of posts you know that I believe that for a drug-free person a lot of volume will lead to overtraining and intensity is the key ingredient for long-term growth. However, I do not think as low of volume as he suggests is optimal. You would basically be doing about 3, twenty-minute workouts per week. But a lot of his philosophy does make logical sense in my opinion. In the 1980 Olympia Mike tied for fourth. Mike claimed to the day he died that the Olympia that year was rigged. He did never say that he should have won but always said that Arnold should not have won. He looked great in 1980 and I pick him as number four because he was almost perfectly symmetrical from top to bottom. Something that few bodybuilders have been able to produce is a 100% complete physique from top to bottom.

3. Frank Zane, 1979 Mr. Olympia

Frank Zane had one of the most aesthetically pleasing physiques all time no doubt. The three years that he won the Olympia he showed up with a level of conditioning greater than all of the other competitors. His proportion and symmetry were very good. He wasn’t the biggest guy, but bodybuilding is not just about being the biggest. Of course size matters, but so does symmetry, balance and conditioning. His conditioning was crazy for the era.

2. Lee Haney, 1987 Mr. Olympia

Lee Haney retired at the age of 32 after winning the Olympia eight times. His first win was at age 24. He is the second youngest person to the win the Olympia – the youngest was Arnold at age 23. No one of that era came close to his back lat spread and back double bicep until Dorian Yates came along in 1991, Haney’s final year.

1. Sergio Oliva, 1969 Mr. Olympia

If I could have the genetics of any of the bodybuilders from back in the day, I would pick Sergio. He was the only bodybuilder to have a smaller waist than Frank Zane and he coupled that with ballooned, blown-out-looking everything else, even huge legs…which no one had back then! They called him “The Myth” for a reason. Crazy!

Top 5 Bodybuilding Physiques – Post-Modern Era:

5. Nasser el Sonbaty, 1999 Arnold Classic

The year Nasser won the Arnold Classic he claimed to be around 290lbs. Bodybuilding is the only sport in which competitors over-exaggerate their weight and under-exaggerate their height to make it seem as though they have more mass for their height. I suspect 290lbs was a bit of an exaggeration but who knows? Anyway, Nasser was huge and shredded in 1999 year, blowing the competition out of the water.

4. Phil Heath, 2011 Mr. Olympia

Phil has been criticized in the past for having narrow clavicles, making him less than super-wide. I don’t think this is the case, it is more a matter of Jay Cutler, who Heath has been standing next to the past few years, having genetically super-wide shoulders. Cutler is the widest bodybuilder I have seen in real life, which is partly the reason he was able to win the Olympia four times. Jay Cutler and Kai Greene are the only two top level pros who have that crazy wide structure these days. Anyway back to Phil…he is called “The Gift” for a reason. The guy has the roundest muscle bellies since Flex Wheeler. When he is just standing there it looks like there is just muscle hanging off of him. Probably the most cartoonish-looking guy out there today.

3. Kevin Levrone, 1999 British Grand Prix

Look up his posing routine via YouTube and you will see why I picked this guy for as #3. Kevin’s legs were never were never quite as good after he turned pro. Maybe he had an injury and had to train around it. But for the 1999 British Grand Prix he certainly brought them back up. He was full, hard and dry. He also had an awesome posing routine.

2. Flex Wheeler, 1999 Mr. Olympia

Probably the most aesthetically-pleasing physique of the nineties. Tiny waist; tiny joints; round, full, muscle bellies and nailed conditioning. You can watch his posing routine on YouTube for this one too.

1. Ronnie Coleman, 2003 Mr. Olympia

“The Big Nasty”. This guy, at this competition, was the biggest, freakiest thing to walk on a bodybuilding stage to date. He had the biggest legs of all time, and biggest back of all time too, at this showing. This was 12 years ago and no one has come close to looking like this since. I doubt that anyone will for a while.

There you go that’s my top five from each era. Do you agree or disagree with me? What are your picks?

Ladies you don’t want to miss this…

I’m just putting the finishing touches on the brand new…

Ladies “PHOTO FINISH” Transformation Bootcamp Program!

This Program is going to be offered soon (starting September 12) at the Personal Best Studio and space is limited.

You get the expertise of both myself and Norma Jean Hall as your trainers and we are very excited to be teaming up and offering you this Program!

What is the “Photo Finish” Program all about?

Get ready for an intense, 8-week, fitness training program! You will get everything you need to transform and sculpt your body and achieve the fastest results possible! The Program is designed to prepare you for a professional Photo Shoot! The 8 weeks will wrap up with a studio photo shoot that is included as part of this exciting “Photo Finish” Program!

Here is what you will get…

• You will receive the specially designed “Photo Finish” Meal Plan.  Nutrition is crucial but it doesn’t have to be bland and boring! We break the meal plans down into phases to eliminate the guess work for you. Tasty meals with Results!

• You will train in a small, group setting with Norma Jean twice per week – that’s 16 semi-private, personal training sessions, which are included in the Program. Plus, you will get the “Photo Finish” Training program that maps out exactly what you should be doing every day of the week to get maximum results.

• A professional studio photo shoot with Charro Benteau from Atlantic Horizon Imaging at the end of the 8 weeks. 

IMPORTANT FACTS!

There are a lot of great training programs and different workouts out there that you could follow, and there are tons of different diets, fads, etc. that “can” work…but what really makes the difference in seeing amazing results?

In my 15+ years in the fitness industry having helped HUNDREDS of bootcampers transform their bodies and dozens of males and females compete in Bodybuilding, Figure, and Bikini Model competitions (but this is not about me, it’s about how I want to help you) I have learned  the important “extra factors” to results.

I have learned, what you need and what will guarantee your results with the “Photo Finish” Program is…

1. A Clear Goal: A clear goal is necessary. It’s proven that setting goals will help you achieve better results. If someone just says “I want to be in better shape” that isn’t enough. The more specific you can be with your goal, the better. That is why my competitors see such amazing results; their goal is to be in the best possible shape on stage. With the “Photo Finish” Program the goal is crystal clear…to be in your best shape possible and photo shoot ready, so that we capture pictures that you can be proud of! 

2.  Accountability: Without accountability it is too easy to fall off track. When you start this Program…it’s on! There will be no more procrastinating and starting next Monday. We will help you stay on track with weekly check-ins. Measurements, weigh-ins and progress pictures will be taken. We do this because it works! 

3.  Motivation: NJ and I want you to achieve the best possible results with this Program; it is important to us, so we will be there to encourage you and motivate you along the way. There will be mini-challenges set up throughout the Program to keep you excited and seeing results!

4. Set date/deadline: Maybe you have heard the quote…

“Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.”

Well this is also true for fitness and health as well. Having a set date or deadline forces you to take action and achieve your goal! With the “Photo Finish” Program the date is set for exactly 8 weeks! 

As you can see, all of these factors are connected and that is why this Program works so effectively!

Not only are you going to enjoy having a new, fit, sexy body! You will also get to take part in a fun and exciting Photo Shoot! 

Maybe you have seen a friend or someone you know on Facebook who has had a physique or fitness photo shoot? Well if this is something you have considered but were not quite ready or sure, now is your chance, not only to get in the best shape of your life, but to wrap it all up with some amazing photos that you can be proud of too!

That is where Charro Benteau comes in! We will be teaming up with Charro Benteau who owns Atlantic Horizon Imaging. I did a photo shoot with Charro a couple years ago, and she is fantastic! Here are a couple pics that I had done with Charro. 

A photo from my photo shoot with Charro

Included in the Photo Shoot you will receive:

• One-on-One camera time with Charro Benteau (approx 45 minutes of any type photos that you want!) Norma Jean and I will also help you with suggestions for the shoot to capture some amazing pics!

• Hair and Makeup will be done by a professional right before your shoot!

• A  disc of 15 edited Photos! Plus, the option to have more or get some printed will also be available. 

The Photo Finish Program is regularly going to cost $599. However because I want to kick this Program off with a bang I am offering $100 off as an introductory special only.  So…

Right now for an investment of $499 you will receive everything: the Meal Plan, the Workouts, the Training Program, the Motivation and the Photo Shoot!

We are only taking small groups of 4-5 ladies and this Program will be limited to a few groups only. 

Call or email NOW to secure your spot in this brand new Photo Finish Program!

753-0303

or 

PersonalBest@gmail.com

Committed to your Success,

Andy Pratt and Norma Jean Hall

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> 

Q: Is the Photo Finish Program right for me? 

A: The Photo Finish Program is for all experience levels. We will motivate you and push you to get great results, but the workouts will be go at your own pace…don’t worry we know when you are able to do a little more!

Whether you just want to lose the last 5-10lbs or if you are just starting out and have 20, 30, or 50+lb’s that you might want to take off, the Photo Finish Program is all about a supportive atmosphere, getting the best possible results in 8 weeks, looking and feeling great and being proud of your results! 

Q: Do I need to wear a bikini in the photo shoot? 

A: No, not at all, you are certainly welcome to get some great “after” pictures in swimwear; however, this Program is designed to help everyone achieve their own best body and we will work with you and make suggestions for fitness or casual attire to capture some great photos!

Check out what some of Andy’s past clients have had to say about how he transformed their bodies

Hey gang,

Andy here, and today I’m with Norma Jean Hall, the newest addition to the Personal Best team!

 Norma Jean (“NJ”) is a top Provincial Figure competitor, wife, mother and Certified Personal Trainer.    NJ is following her passion and beginning her career in the Fitness industry. In my 15+ years in the fitness world I have to say that the amount of knowledge and enthusiasm that NJ shares is a rare find!  

Andy: Hi Norma Jean, I’m super excited to have you on board at Personal Best Studio! How about first of all giving us a little background on how you got started working out and your journey to having the lifestyle you live today?

NJ: Well Andy, it is a long story, but I will try to shorten where I can. I was always active, exercised and tried to be healthy; however, weight loss didn’t come as easily after I had my son, Zander. I gained 65lbs or more and was quite uncomfortable. I knew that I had to lose the weight and be healthy for myself and for my family.  I tried all the gimmick diets and exercised at home in my tiny little room while my son slept in his car seat on the sofa.  I worked my butt off every day and ate little to nothing. At first I dropped a lot of weight, but then I hit a plateau and I no longer had any energy or drive. I started researching everything I could about diet and exercise and realized that I had become the newly coined term: skinny fat. I was not eating enough and was a so-called cardio queen.

Norma Jean (“NJ”) at the 2010 NLABBA Bodybuilding, Figure & Figure Model Competition

I signed up at a local gym, obtained a personal trainer and began reading everything I could on nutrition and exercise. There is a lot of information out there, and it can be overwhelming at first, but I stuck with my goal. I learned basic resistance training and nutrition and I was hooked. For once I was completely satisfied with myself and proud of what I had accomplished.

Then I decided to take it to the next level and compete in the provincial bodybuilding and figure show.  As you are aware, competing is a tough gig, but I wanted to challenge the  love that I had for this new life and prove to myself that I was being true to myself and that I was doing this for me. While training, I had an “A HA” moment (you ladies will know what I mean) and realized that this was no longer a hobby for me…This was a lifestyle…and a life that I wanted to live forever and share with others. I decided to focus on helping people reach their goals by sharing my knowledge and experiences, staying positive and motivating others whom needed the extra push.

I have trained, wrote programs and helped with nutrition for those I knew in the past, but worked full-time in a corporate position within the Oil and Gas industry. I was good at my job, but I was not being true to myself. So with the support of my close family and friends, you included, I decided to switch gears and become a personal trainer full-time!!! And I must say, I love every minute of it. When I help a person get through their last rep, or give someone a healthy recipe that they like, my day is made. It is hard to explain, but I know that this is what I am meant to do.

Andy: I know exactly what you mean NJ, working as a Personal Trainer is very rewarding and I, too, feel very fortunate doing a job I love. I believe that holds true for anyone, and anything; if you don’t love what you do, find your passion!

Also, congrats on such an amazing transformation and taking action with a positive lifestyle change! You mentioned at first you were a little overwhelmed, was there anyone that inspired you or was there a source of inspiration to help you stick with your goal?  

NJ: Although I have many inspirations, my son is top on the list.  I knew that I had to be healthy and increase my energy level if I was going to keep up with him. Prior to exercising and living a more healthy lifestyle I would have times when my lower back muscles would spasm and this decreased my ability to move.  One of my major goals in losing the weight after pregnancy was to improve my overall strength so my back would not give out on me and I could pick Zander (my son) up and play with him.
 
Once I lost the weight, I looked to local inspirations in the Health and Fitness industry to motivate me and keep me on track and I started to research the NLABBA.  Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is not always easy but the more people you surround yourself with that have similar goals, the more support you have and the easier it gets.
 
I studied psychology in University and understand the importance of surrounding yourself with support systems to help you achieve and maintain your goals.  People often ask me why I need a trainer to keep me on track if I am a Personal Trainer myself.  The answer is simple: being accountable to someone other than yourself gives you the extra push you sometimes need when you can’t get through the workout and the support helps keep you in the game when you are having a tough day. Everyone needs that from time to time.

Andy: I agree NJ, accountability is huge. That is why we build an accountability factor into so many of the programs that we offer at Personal Best Fitness Studio. It takes more than just the right Nutrition and Training program for someone to see dramatic results. Training and Nutrition Journals, writing down what you eat (even the wine or chocolate cake!), writing down your goals, setting timelines/end-dates for your goal(s) are all forms of accountability that work! Also scheduling in your workout sessions with a Trainer and making your workouts at set appointment times might be just what is needed to see results.

NJ thanks for taking the time to share your story and fitness tips with us today. I’m thrilled to have you join the Team at Personal Best and I’m excited to team up with you on the “Fit and Fabulous” semi-private Personal Training group sessions and the brand new Ladies “Photo Finish” Transformation Program! I know with the knowledge and passion you bring to the table members at the Studio are going to love working with you and see some awesome results!

To close this out, lets wrap this up with a few speed questions, I want to know the first answer that pops in your head!

Favorite exercise?  Pull Up

Favorite body part to train? Shoulders

Figure Athlete you most admire? Nicole Wilkins

Favorite healthy meal? I know Garrison, your husband, is an awesome cook! Mexican Sweet Potato Bake – I will have to share the recipe soon!

Yes please, I definitely want that one! lol Favorite treat meal? Chocolate cake

Cool stuff NJ! Here are a couple of non-fitness questions…

Favorite band or music? Rod Stewart is one of my all time favs, but I listen to Top 40 music when I’m doing cardio.

Right on, Stacey is a Rod Stewart fan too, you’ll have to come to Vegas with us so you can go to the show with her and I won’t have to go, lol, just kidding!

Favorite movie? That is a tie between “GREASE” and “The Fighter”, depends on my mood

Awesome stuff NJ! Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us today!

Look HOT this Halloween!

28-day Rapid Fat Flush. Melt the fat just in time for Halloween.

Ladies, do you want to look sexy in that costume?!

Guys, do you want to look buff with your shirt off?!

Don’t miss out on all the fun this Halloween. I’m going to hook you up with the meal plan and workouts that will help you slash up to 14lbs of unwanted body fat so that you can wear the hot costume you want for mardi gras!

Have a blast at the party instead of staying home frustrated with that costume being too tight.

Am I saying you’re going to look like Jolie in Tomb Raider or one of the guys in the movie 300 in just 4 weeks?

Well I’m not saying you can’t, especially if you are in good striking distance. If you know me you know I don’t like to set limits. Go for it! However, what you can do is feel a lot more comfortable, confident and relaxed in that costume. No one wants to feel fat and self-conscious in their costume on Halloween.

This goes live Wednesday, there are only 4 spots available and is for serious action takers only!

It doesn’t matter if you have 50+ lb’s to lose or the last 10lbs, I want to make you feel great!

Don't Be THIS GUY!!

45min workout

3 x’s per week

Either 7am or 6:30pm

P.S. This program will also include my 5-day nutritional challenge that we will implement in the last 5 days of the program (this challenge is really effective at flattening your belly!)

>> This goes live Wednesday, there are only 4 spots available and is for serious action takers only! Order now, reserve your spot and get ready to rock that costume with a new body this Halloween!  <<